The Stony Brook Film Festival is celebrating its 30th anniversary at the Staller Center for Arts, offering a diverse selection of films from around the globe. Running until July 26, the festival presents 36 films from 19 countries, including world premieres and U.S. debuts. Attendees can experience these films on the Staller Center’s large screen, with many screenings followed by Q&A sessions with filmmakers.
This year's festival explores themes of family strength and limits through various films. Notable entries include "Way Home," an action-drama about a father's efforts to bring his son back from Syria; "Nawi," a drama about a Kenyan girl's educational dreams threatened by her father's plans; "Mazel Tov," a comedy about mending family relationships in Argentina; and "The Umesh Chronicles," an Indian film reflecting on social class differences.
American independent dramas also feature prominently. Finn Wittrock stars in "Westhampton," set in Long Island and directed by Christian Nilsson. JT Walker's "La Gloria" tells the story of an aged rancher near Mexico's border, while Joel Alfonso Vargas' "Mad Bills to Pay" delves into personal responsibility in the Bronx.
Other notable films include "Animale," starring Oulaya Amamra, and the biopic "Midas Man" about Beatles manager Brian Epstein. The festival concludes with Gala Gracia’s debut film, "The Remnants of You."
Passes available for the festival include VIP Gold Passes, Regular Passes, and Flex Passes, with single tickets also offered.